SSEN Transmission has committed to building over 300 homes in Aberdeenshire as part of its £22+ billion planned programme of investment in the north of Scotland’s electricity grid.
The organisation has pledged a series of specific outcomes for the region as part of the programme, including boosting the economy by up to £820 million – with an estimated local spend of up to £1 billion.
Further to this is supporting an estimated 1,140 jobs in Aberdeenshire, unlocking £32 million of community benefit investment through projects, and the build of over 300 new legacy homes across five development sites in the region.
In December, SSEN Transmission announced the first of its housing projects in Aberdeenshire, in Turriff. The development will see the build of 69 homes, being delivered in partnership with Springfield.
The new-build homes will initially support the workforce delivering the planned major electricity network upgrades forming part of SSEN Transmission’s £22+ billion infrastructure investment programme.
Paul Cooley, director of onshore capital delivery at SSEN Transmission, said, “We are very pleased to publish a detailed set of gains for the people and economy of Aberdeenshire that are unlocked by upgrading the electricity transmission grid. Investment in a modern grid to achieve energy security and clean power for the country goes hand in hand with building stronger communities in Aberdeenshire.
“Jobs, new housing, work for local businesses, and investment in infrastructure is exactly what Aberdeenshire needs, and we are determined to play our part in delivering them. By building a lasting legacy of benefits with our partners and stakeholders, we create more opportunities for people to live, work and raise families in local communities.”
Russell Borthwick, chief executive of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, added,
